Join us in this episode of Toy Business Unboxed as we chat with industry veterans about the fascinating world of toy design and licensing. Discover Brad's incredible 20-year journey from working on beloved brands like Disney and Pixar to designing innovative outdoor toys. Dive deep into the complexities of licensing deals, from financials and negotiations to protecting intellectual property and dealing with knockoffs. Learn about the transition from large corporations to startups, and get inspired by personal stories of career twists and turns. Perfect for anyone curious about the magic behind toys and the business strategies that bring them to life! ⭐️ Highlights: 00:00 Introduction to Toy Business Unboxed 01:18 Brad's Journey in the Toy Industry 03:31 From Kids II to Elf on the Shelf 03:55 The World of Licensing 05:29 Inbound vs Outbound Licensing 09:00 Licensing Agreements and Terms 12:47 Advice for Toy Manufacturers 14:57 Choosing Companies for Licensing Deals 16:08 The Importance of Patents in Licensing 17:31 Dealing with Knockoffs and Counterfeits 18:35 Memorable Experiences in the Licensing Industry 20:08 Transition to a New Role at 'Life is Better Outside' 20:30 Starting a New Company and Its Challenges 22:01 The Future of Licensing and Product Development 25:52 Advice for Aspiring Toy Industry Professionals 26:58 Connecting with the Guest